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Tributes to man found dead after river search

Family photo Leon Vernon-White and his motherFamily photo
Leon Vernon-White, pictured with his mother, was described by his family as a "free spirit" who made people smile

A man who died after his canoe capsized was a "mischievous free spirit", his family say.

Leon Vernon-White, from Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, was found dead on Friday after a large police search operation on the River Teifi in Cardigan, Ceredigion.

Paying tribute to the 24-year-old, his family said he was a well-known face in his area from busking with his guitar.

"He could be mischievous and stubborn but also caring and loving and fiercely loyal," they said.

“He was a free spirit who had the ability to put a smile on everyone's face... a constant source of entertainment to all those who knew him."

Dyfed-Powys Police began the search after a canoeist was reported missing just before 19:40 BST on Thursday.

Coastguards were joined by the RNLI, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and other specialist search and rescue teams.

Mr Vernon-White's body was recovered at about 01:00 on Friday.

Rescue teams at the scene
A major search operation took place overnight before a body was found in the river

His family said he described himself as a jewellery artist, musician and science enthusiast, which "sums him up perfectly".

"Leon loved animals, especially his two dogs Missy and Sid, who went everywhere with him," they said.

"He was a real character and had a large circle of friends from all walks of life.

"He will be deeply missed, loved and forever in our hearts."

They also thanked the emergency services and all those involved in the search.